Fire sign Zimbabwean striker Kheli Dube

CHICAGO, IL (Jan. 24, 2012) – The Chicago Fire Soccer Club announced Tuesday the signing of Zimbabwean striker Kheli Dube. The 28-year-old forward was the team’s only selection in the 2011 MLS Re-Entry Process and becomes the fifth player added to the Fire roster this offseason. Per league and team policy, terms of the deal were not disclosed.

“Kheli has been an offensive threat since he came into the league,” said Chicago Fire head coach Frank Klopas. “He’s a gritty, hard working striker that plays for the badge. Since joining us in preseason Kheli has shown his desire to be part of our club.”

Selected eighth overall by the New England Revolution in the 2008 MLS Supplemental Draft, the former Zimbabwean youth international tallied four goals and four assists and helped the Revs to the 2008 SuperLiga title en route to being named a finalist for MLS Rookie of the Year.

Prior to his time with the Revolution, Dube split his collegiate career between N.A.I.A. powerhouse Lindsey Wilson College (2004-05) and Coastal Carolina University (2006-07), where he was named 2007 Big South Player of the Year. Dube spent 2005-07 with the Michigan Bucks of the USL Premier Development League where he made 41 appearances, tallying 25 goals while helping the side to its first North American Championship in 2006 and a return to the league final in 2007.

Player: Mkhokheli (Kheli) Dube

Position: Forward

Height: 5’ 11”

Weight: 160 lbs.

Born: June 18, 1983

Place of Birth: Bulawayo, Zimbabwe

Citizenship: Zimbabwe (Green Card holder)

Last Club: New England Revolution

How Acquired: Signed on as free agent (January 24, 2012) after being selected in Stage Two of the 2011 MLS Re-Entry Process (December 12, 2011)